A few weeks, maybe even months into this pandemic, it was easier to see the silver lining. But at this point, I know we’ve all been impacted in countless ways. It is easy to take something like health for granted, when you have it.

A few weeks, maybe even months into this pandemic, it was easier to see the silver lining. But at this point, I know we’ve all been impacted in countless ways. It is easy to take something like health for granted, when you have it. Because of the community we serve we know how fragile life can be, and I think more of us than ever got woken up to that reality this year. As if that wasn’t enough, job loss, isolation, and so much more have contributed to what feels like a very empty glass.

There were times this year that we felt that way, too. But we also know what filling that cup looks like, and while you think it may be about receiving... it’s actually about giving - giving compassion, giving once in a lifetime experiences to children and families who need it, that’s right it is in giving that we have found meaning and purpose. Because even though we each have a 2020 story to tell, I can guarantee you someone else had it worse in some way.

My bet is one day that science or Mother Nature will end this chapter and most of us will get back to a life that might be different, but largely similar to January 1 of almost a year ago. I hope what does change is that we vow to never forget the lessons this year has brought. Life is short and often fragile and should be lived to the fullest, to never lose sight of all the good that is in our lives (yes, even now, there is much), and to be there for those who may need it more than we do. There will be much need for compassion towards those whose lives are forever changed.

As for us, we vow to continue on our mission to impact the lives of chronically and terminally ill children and their families (which thanks to covid we were actually able to virtually expand our reach across the US! - we see you silver lining!). And as we look ahead to 2021 we are already filled with hope and excitement for the big plans we have. Because in addition to compassion and giving it is also HOPE that fills your glass.

My glass is most certainly half full and I hope yours might be as well, even if it is just in perspective. Mostly I pray that all of us gain an appreciation that being kind to one another I perhaps the best part of this journey called life and that we are forever changed to answer that calling more often and for the rest of our lives.

I swear, we will return to our usual irreverent satire next post. For that, there is no cure. Sorry.